A 48-year-old woman who worked at St. Edward On-the-Lake Catholic Church for 15 years is charged with stealing $100,000 or more from the parish.

Jacalyn Renee O’Boyle of Port Huron Township was charged with embezzlement, $100,000 or more Feb. 9. Bond was set at $2,500. A preliminary examination is scheduled for 9:30 Tuesday morning.

Joe Kohn, Archdiocese of Detroit spokesman, said they believe the theft was done during the past few years. Court records list the offense date as Jan. 1, 2003.

Kohn said missing funds were discovered in July during a regular audit conducted by the Archdiocese. He didn’t know when the last audit was done before that.

Kohn said O’Boyle and the church parted ways following the audit, he didn’t know if she was fired or resigned.

“We take seriously any action that would take from the trust of those who give to the church,” he said.

Trooper Bethany Craig, with the Michigan State Police Richmond post, said she started investigating the case in December. She said O’Boyle turned herself in Feb. 9.

Craig said they are not releasing information about how the money was allegedly embezzled.

“It’s always upsetting when someone is accused of seriously betraying the trust of a community, but as Christians, we’re taught to forgive even as justice takes its course,” said the Rev. Joseph Esper, past of St. Edward. “We’re praying for everyone affected by this situation.”

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